Appley Tower
A beautifully restored 1875 coastal tower showcasing local art and offering breathtaking sea views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden light & fewer crowds
Appley Tower
Best Time
Golden light & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A beautifully restored 1875 coastal tower showcasing local art and offering breathtaking sea views.
"A picturesque and historical landmark offering a blend of natural beauty and architectural charm."
Ascend with Care
The spiral staircase can be tricky; take your time and be mindful of your shoulders. :athletic_shoe:
Check for Exhibitions
The tower often hosts local art, so check what's on before you go! :art:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Tower Interior
Inside Appley Tower
Explore the beautifully restored 1875 tower, a former watchtower now showcasing local art and history.
Panoramic Coastal Views
Top of Appley Tower
Ascend to the top for breathtaking views of the sea, beach, and surrounding coastline.
Art Exhibitions
Inside Appley Tower
Discover rotating exhibitions by local artists, adding a cultural dimension to your visit.
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Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Appley Tower
Access and Amenities at Appley Tower
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Ascend with Care
The spiral staircase can be tricky; take your time and be mindful of your shoulders. :athletic_shoe:
Check for Exhibitions
The tower often hosts local art, so check what's on before you go! :art:
Enjoy the Surroundings
The park and beach offer great walks and play areas for kids. :child:
Photography Spot
Perfect for capturing coastal scenery and the tower's unique architecture. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
Ascend with Care
The spiral staircase can be tricky; take your time and be mindful of your shoulders. :athletic_shoe:
Check for Exhibitions
The tower often hosts local art, so check what's on before you go! :art:
Enjoy the Surroundings
The park and beach offer great walks and play areas for kids. :child:
Photography Spot
Perfect for capturing coastal scenery and the tower's unique architecture. :camerawithflash:
Pre-book Afternoon Tea
Special afternoon tea can be arranged on top if pre-booked. :tea:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Appley Tower is praised for its historical charm and beautiful coastal views, with many appreciating the restoration efforts and art exhibitions. While some find the donation fee a bit steep and the spiral staircase challenging, the overall experience is considered pleasant and worthwhile, especially with the surrounding park and beach amenities.
"£2pp donation to go up and have a look, a bit steep but I'm glad it's open and donations are obviously needed to keep it going, what a beautiful little tower, nice views, would be cute if there were a few deckchairs up top to sit in ! The spiral staircase is a bit tricky to get up if youre very broad shouldered 😂"
Rosa-May Bown
"Great park area with easy parking not cheap but it's the same every where on the island small play area for children toilets and a pleasant walk along the bay to Seaview a few nice eating places along the route lots of beach areas especially when tide is out interesting remnants at puckpool battery and another children's play area toilets and the old barracks café, we loved this whole area very pleasant with great views"
Bernie Geck
"Appley Tower is a picturesque and historical landmark situated by the sea, offering a blend of natural beauty and architectural charm. During our visit, we were captivated by the tower's unique design, which reflects its rich history dating back to 1875. The tower, originally built as part of a larger estate, is now a Grade II listed building and has been beautifully restored.
The information boards around the site provided fascinating insights into its past, including its role as a watchtower and its transformation into a gallery space. The timeline and historical photos enriched our understanding of how this iconic structure has evolved over the years.
The surrounding area, with its scenic beachfront and well-maintained pathways, adds to the charm of the visit. The tower's position overlooking the beach offers breathtaking views, making it a perfect spot for photography and relaxation. The restoration efforts funded by the National Lottery and local councils are commendable, as they have preserved this piece of history for public enjoyment.
Whether you're a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply looking for a serene place to explore, Appley Tower is a must-visit. Its historical significance combined with the serene coastal setting makes it a memorable destination. We thoroughly enjoyed our visit and highly recommend it to anyone visiting the Isle of Wight."
Andy Singh
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Appley Tower is located by the sea in Ryde on the Isle of Wight. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. The surrounding park and bay offer pleasant walking routes from Ryde town center.
Yes, there is parking available near Appley Tower, though it may not be free. It's part of a larger park area with amenities like toilets and play areas.
Absolutely! You can enjoy a pleasant walk along the bay from Seaview or Ryde town center to reach Appley Tower. The pathways are well-maintained.
The most common way to reach the Isle of Wight is by ferry from the mainland (e.g., Portsmouth or Southampton). Once on the island, you can drive or use public transport to get to Ryde.
Yes, local buses serve the Ryde area, and you can walk from the town center to Appley Tower. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Appley Tower itself is often free, with a small donation suggested to support its upkeep and exhibitions. Some special events or pre-booked services like afternoon tea may have separate charges.
Opening hours can vary, especially for exhibitions. It's best to check the official local listings or community boards for the most current times, as they may differ seasonally.
For general entry to see the tower and its exhibitions, booking in advance is usually not required. However, if you wish to pre-book afternoon tea on top, then advance booking is essential.
Appley Tower features a spiral staircase, which may present challenges for individuals with mobility issues. The surrounding park and beach areas are generally more accessible.
Donations are crucial for the restoration, maintenance, and ongoing operation of Appley Tower, including hosting local art exhibitions and preserving this historical landmark.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside Appley Tower, you'll find information boards detailing its history, from its 1875 origins as part of an estate to its role as a watchtower. It also frequently hosts exhibitions by local artists.
The views from the top of Appley Tower are described as breathtaking, offering panoramic vistas of the sea, the beach, and the coastline. It's a popular spot for photography.
Yes, there are toilet facilities located in the park area near Appley Tower, making it convenient for visitors.
Indeed, there is a small play area for children located within the park surrounding Appley Tower, making it a family-friendly destination.
Yes, it's possible to pre-book afternoon tea to be served on top of Appley Tower, offering a unique dining experience with stunning views.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and beautiful golden hues. Sunset can be particularly stunning from the tower's vantage point.
You can capture stunning coastal landscapes, the unique architecture of the tower itself, and details of the local art exhibitions. The surrounding beach and park also offer great photo opportunities.
Regulations regarding drone usage can vary. It's advisable to check local bylaws and any specific restrictions in place for the park and coastal areas before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the panoramic views and the tower's scale. A telephoto lens can be useful for details along the coastline. Don't forget a polarizing filter for enhancing sky and sea colors. :camerawithflash:
The top of the tower offers the most expansive views. The base of the tower against the sea or sky also makes for dramatic shots. The nearby beach and promenade provide varied perspectives.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the tower itself has a spiral staircase that might be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues, the expansive beach and park provide plenty of entertainment. The nearby amenities, including toilets, add to the convenience for families. Consider packing a picnic to enjoy in the park or on the beach for a full day of fun.
🎨 Art & History Enthusiasts
Beyond its historical context, the tower regularly hosts exhibitions by local artists. This provides a dynamic cultural experience, showcasing contemporary creativity within a historic setting. The opportunity to climb to the top for panoramic views further enhances the appeal, offering a unique perspective on the coastal landscape that has inspired artists for generations.
🚶♀️ Walkers & Nature Lovers
The beach itself is a significant part of the experience, particularly during low tide, revealing vast sandy expanses perfect for walking. The natural beauty of the coastline, combined with the historical presence of the tower, creates a serene and picturesque environment for anyone who enjoys being outdoors and appreciating coastal landscapes.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Restoration of Appley Tower
The restoration of Appley Tower has been a community effort, ensuring that this piece of history is accessible to the public. Information boards around the site provide fascinating insights into its past, detailing its evolution and significance. These boards often include historical photos, enriching visitors' understanding of how the structure has changed and been maintained over time. The efforts have transformed it from a potentially forgotten relic into a vibrant space for art and heritage.
Today, Appley Tower is not just a historical monument but also a cultural hub. It frequently hosts exhibitions by local artists, providing a platform for creativity and adding a dynamic layer to the visitor experience. This blend of historical significance and contemporary art makes Appley Tower a compelling destination for a wide range of interests, from history buffs to art enthusiasts.
Exploring the Appley Tower Area
The beachfront adjacent to Appley Tower is a significant draw, especially during low tide when expansive sandy areas are revealed. Visitors can enjoy walking along the bay, with routes extending towards Seaview and other points of interest. The presence of several nice eating places along the route further enhances the appeal of this coastal stretch, offering opportunities to relax and refuel.
For those interested in military history, remnants at Puckpool Battery are nearby, adding another layer of exploration to the area. This combination of natural beauty, historical remnants, and recreational facilities makes the Appley Tower vicinity a comprehensive destination for a day out, appealing to a broad spectrum of visitors seeking both relaxation and discovery.
Social
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